Jen Pawol Set to Rewrite Baseball History as MLB’s First Female Umpire
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Jen Pawol is poised to make a groundbreaking entry into the annals of Major League Baseball (MLB) as the first-ever female umpire in the league’s history. The New Jersey native, aged 48, will officiate during the regular season games between the Miami Marlins and the Atlanta Braves scheduled for this weekend. Her umpiring duties will see her at the bases during the doubleheader on Saturday, August 9, at Truist Park in Atlanta, with a role behind the plate for calling balls and strikes on Sunday, August 10, as confirmed by MLB to the Associated Press.
Pawol’s journey to this historic moment in baseball has been one marked by dedication and passion for the game. Starting her athletic career as an all-state softball and soccer player at West Milford High School in New Jersey, she continued to excel by earning a softball scholarship at Hofstra University. Not stopping there, Pawol went on to become a three-time all-conference pick during her time at Hofstra and was even a member of the USA Baseball women’s national baseball team in 2001.
After attaining a master’s degree and engaging in teaching certification classes at Elmira College in Binghamton, N.Y., while continuing to play ball, Pawol transitioned into the world of officiating. Her journey included a stint umpiring National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) softball games from 2010 to 2016 before further honing her skills at an MLB umpire tryout camp in 2015. Following this, she was offered a position in the Gulf Coast League in 2016 after attending the Umpire Training Academy at Vero Beach, Fla. Pawol made history in 2024 by becoming the first female umpire to officiate MLB spring training games since Ria Cortesio in 2007.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred lauded Pawol’s achievements, citing her hard work, dedication, and love for the game as instrumental in paving the way for future generations of women and girls aspiring to roles on the field. Reflecting on her role as a trailblazer, Pawol expressed her love for the job, emphasising her passion and commitment to umpiring. With a simple mantra of constant improvement and readiness for each new day, she embodies the ethos of hard work and perseverance.
In a sport steeped in tradition, Pawol’s historic entry as MLB’s first female umpire signifies a significant milestone towards a more inclusive and diverse future for baseball. As she takes her place on the diamond this weekend, Pawol stands not just as a symbol of gender equality and progress but as a testament to the power of determination and skill in breaking barriers.
The MLB’s decision to appoint Pawol comes at a time when the sporting world is witnessing a gradual shift towards greater representation and opportunities for women in traditionally male-dominated fields. By breaking through this gender barrier, Pawol’s journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring female officials and athletes alike, showing that with grit and perseverance, ceilings can indeed be shattered.
As Jen Pawol prepares to make her mark in MLB history, her story serves as a reminder that barriers exist to be challenged, norms are meant to be redefined, and dreams are there to be realised. In a sport that thrives on moments of triumph and resilience, Pawol’s journey stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of determination and the boundless possibilities that await those who dare to dream.